Subclass 309 Partner Visa Australia
Reunite with your partner and begin your life together in Australia.
Partner Visa
Live in Australia Temporarily While Your Permanent Partner Visa Is Processed
The Partner (Visa Subclass 309) is a temporary visa that allows the spouse or de facto partner of an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen to live in Australia while awaiting permanent residency.
It’s the first stage of the two-part Partner Visa process, leading to the permanent Subclass 100 Visa.
At Affinity Migration, our registered migration agents guide couples through every step, from gathering relationship evidence to preparing a strong, compliant application that meets Department of Home Affairs requirements.
Why Choose Affinity Migration
Partner visas involve complex documentation and relationship evidence. Our experienced team provides clarity, accuracy and genuine care from start to finish.
- Registered migration agents specialising in Partner and Family Visas
- End-to-end guidance for both 309 (temporary) and 100 (permanent) stages
- Clear checklists and document support for couples living apart or together
- Honest, transparent communication — no jargon or hidden costs
- Proven results helping partners reunite in Australia
We’re here to make one of life’s biggest journeys as smooth as possible.
About the Student Visa Subclass 500
The Student Visa 500 Australia lets you study full-time at an approved Australian education provider.
You can bring eligible family members and enjoy limited work rights during your course.
About the Partner Visa Subclass 309
The Australia Partner Visa Subclass 309 is a temporary visa for applicants outside Australia who are in a genuine relationship with their Australian partner.
Once granted, you can live, work and study in Australia until your Subclass 100 permanent visa is decided.
Key benefits:
- Live in Australia temporarily with your partner
- Work and study while your application is processed
- Travel freely in and out of Australia
- Access Medicare (once eligible)
- Begin the pathway to permanent residency and citizenship
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for a Visa Subclass 309, you must:
- Be outside Australia when you apply and when the visa is granted
- Be married to or in a de facto relationship with your Australian partner
- Prove your relationship is genuine and ongoing
- Meet health and character requirements
- You have not had a visa cancellation or refusal history that might affect your eligibility
Your Australian partner must act as your sponsor throughout both visa stages.
Our Step-by-Step Process
- Initial Consultation – We review your relationship and eligibility.
- Evidence Preparation – We help compile proof of your genuine relationship.
- Application Lodgement – We submit a complete, compliant application.
- Processing & Follow-Up – We liaise with the Department on your behalf.
- Transition to Permanent Visa – We guide you from Subclass 309 to 100 when eligible.
The Path to Permanent Residency
After holding the 309 visa for around two years (and continuing your relationship), you’ll be assessed for the Subclass 100 Partner Visa.
This transition grants permanent residency and the same rights as other Australian PR holders.
Affinity Migration monitors your timeline and helps prepare your next-stage submission in advance.
FAQs: Subclass 309 Partner Visa Australia
Yes — the Subclass 309 application must be lodged and granted while you are outside Australia.
It remains valid until a decision is made on your permanent Subclass 100 visa.
Yes, you have full work and study rights once the visa is granted.
Yes, eligible dependent children can be included in your application.
Specific exceptions apply (e.g., domestic violence or children in the relationship). We can advise on your options.
Begin Your Journey Together
The Partner Visa Subclass 309 is the first step to building your life in Australia with the one you love.
At Affinity Migration, we’ll handle every detail so you can focus on your future together.